What happens at a PIP assessment?

A health professional asks about how your condition affects 12 daily living and mobility activities. Assessments can be by phone, by video or face-to-face, and the assessor writes a report recommending points for the DWP.

Why do assessors ask about ordinary things?

Questions such as "how did you get here today?" or "what did you have for breakfast?" are how an assessor gathers evidence about mobility and preparing food. Answer honestly and describe the difficulty, the help you needed and how often it is like that.

Can I record my PIP assessment?

You can ask to record your PIP assessment, but you must arrange it with the assessment provider in advance. Check the current rules on GOV.UK before your appointment.

Is this practice tool free?

Yes. It is free, it runs in your browser, and nothing you type is sent to us. You can register interest in possible future personal support, but no reply, date or service is promised.

Practise for your PIP telephone assessment

PIP assessments are often done by phone. This free practice walks through the shape of the call so it is less of a shock on the day. It is practice and general information, not legal advice, and it cannot tell you what your assessment or award will be.

What to expect on the call

A health professional will ask how your condition affects 12 daily living and mobility activities. A real assessment usually runs longer than this practice and follows your own answers.

Why assessors ask about ordinary things

“How did you get here today?” — this is about mobility. Say how you travelled, what was hard about it and who helped.
“What did you have for breakfast?” — this is about preparing food. Say what you actually manage, and what you cannot do without help.
“Tell me about your hobbies” — say what you do and what it costs you: how long you can concentrate, and what happens afterwards.

This is not a script to perform. Say what is true for you.

Things worth doing before the call

Describe difficult, typical and better days, including how often each occurs
Use specific examples: “Last Tuesday I couldn’t get dressed because...”
Apply the reliability test to every activity
Do not minimise your difficulties — be honest about what you struggle with
Have someone with you if that helps, and keep your notes to hand

Other free tools

PIP Appeal Check — work through the activities and see possible points
Phone assessment practice — you are here
Evidence Pack Builder — request GP or specialist letters
Mandatory Reconsideration letter — challenge a decision
Tribunal preparation — practice questions and a day-of checklist